Rodion Ivanov, Max Hladetsky, Valeriy Volkov. More Than Words.

Let me put it baldly: it is very nice that we have succeeded in finding for our store – and, thus, for you – a few copies of the album "More than Words". This work – even though the recording was made in 2002, is a convincing illustration of that beautiful and high-quality music does not get old, does not become outdated. Both a few years ago, when I heard the album for the first time, and now, when I am listening to it once and once again – I cannot but hear the crisp, clear air filling every motion of the musicians. This is the beauty of free, self-confident people – seriously, just hear each of them.. The disc offers such opportunity – a great opportunity. Formally – it can be considered a solo work by Rodion Ivanov, because he is the author of almost all the compositions. While actually – this is a recording of three outstanding sidemen, who, in fact, keep leadership as convincingly as the keep the groove. All the three of them. In the end, it is these three musicians that represent virtually the brightest example in the Ukrainian jazz of the situation when a great talent relies on great modesty, delicacy. I have not seen at any of the performances that any of them would show off, boast his mastery – even though they do have things they could boast of – and at the same time their solos often become the key, really significant decoration of this or that play. Without show off and awards... Therefore, it is no surprise that on this album they not just play, but they also listen and hear each other, let the other one speak – and leave some space for pauses... A very good album – as to my biased taste, sure) Greater than words – indeed..
Rodion Ivanov – piano
Max Gladetsky – double bass
Valeri Volkov  – drums